Café Maspero

Since 1971, Café Maspero has occupied Decatur Street with a casual Cajun and Creole menu. It is known for its hot muffuletta, substantial sandwiches and seafood plates; the restaurant even kept the wooden bar from its first location when it moved. The format is straightforward: walk in, order and share a table in a busy dining room, making it a practical pause between the French Market, the river and Jackson Square.

Customer comments often mention the generous portions, sandwiches and quick service; the restaurant’s popularity can also mean a wait, particularly around lunch. The menu covers breakfast, lunch and dinner, with Cajun and Creole dishes as well as drinks, so you do not need a buffet to put together a full meal. The café does not take reservations. If you are short on time, look at the menu before joining the queue and consider takeaway when the dining room is full.

The restaurant is at 601 Decatur Street, opposite the former Jax Brewery complex and close to the French Market. It opens Sunday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and until 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, according to its website. From Canal Street, walk along Decatur towards the river; the Riverfront Streetcar also serves the market. Café Maspero is a more measured-cost alternative to a jazz brunch buffet with table service and live music, although the final bill depends on what you order and applicable taxes.